First, the good news: Paul Abdul is returning to "American Idol" tonight. Now, the bad news: She's doing it because Luke Bryan is out sick after testing positive for COVID-19.
"I’m sad to say I won’t be a part of tonight’s first live @AmericanIdol show," Bryan wrote on Twitter. "I tested positive for COVID but I’m doing well and look forward to being back at it soon."
MORE: Luke Bryan documents fishing hook injury: 'This is gonna leave a mark'The show's official Instagram account shared the news as well, writing, "Luke will be missed at our first #AmericanIdol LIVE show tonight, but he is resting now in quarantine at home and we’re wishing him a speedy recovery."
"We’re so excited to announce @paulaabdul will be stepping in as a guest judge to join Lionel Richie and Katy Perry as we get closer to crowning a new winner!" the show continued, sharing that Abdul would be coming home.
The show also noted that "production is following strict, rigorous, COVID guidelines and we are all being tested often in accordance with those guidelines."
MORE: Paula Abdul remakes 'Will You Marry Me' music video in honor of PrideThis will be Abdul's first time back on the show since "American Idol" moved to ABC.
"We’ll miss you tonight," Abdul tweeted to Bryan. "Thank you for trusting me with your judge’s seat!"
During tonight's episode, 10 contestants will be sent through from the top 16, based on America's vote. Then, the remaining six contestants will get the chance to perform again for the judges, who will pick two additional hopefuls to create a top 12.
